Funeral services for four friends of the community were held last week, all under the auspices of Smith Funeral Home.
Deacon Golia Gaines, 95
Deacon Golia Gaines of Monroe passed away on March 19, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on August 9, 1929, in Bosco/Monroe, Louisiana, Gaines was a pillar of the community, serving as a deacon at Cuba Missionary Baptist Church for over 60 years.
Gaines received his education at Union Central High School before marrying his devoted wife, Susie M. Smith. Together, they raised 11 children, all of whom they encouraged to pursue higher education.
A self-employed farmer for most of his adult life, Gaines was known for his many self-taught skills, including mechanics, electrical work, plumbing, roofing, and building. His versatility and work ethic served him well as he provided for his large family.
In addition to his role as deacon, Gaines served as church treasurer and lawn/cemetery caretaker at Cuba Missionary Baptist Church. He was also the treasurer for the BB&O Association and a member of the city-wide Brothers Organization.
Gaines was preceded in death by his mother, Martha Gaines, and brothers Joseph Bernard “JB” and Crosby Rush.
Funeral services for Deacon Gaines were held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Cuba Baptist Church in Bosco, with burial following in the church cemetery under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
James Lavell Gray, 87
James Lavell Gray of Monroe passed away on March 30, 2025, at the age of 87. Funeral services were held on Friday, April 4, 2025, at First Missionary Baptist Church in Monroe, with no visitation. Burial followed at Mulhearn Memorial Park Cemetery in Monroe, under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
Demarquez Antonio Kelley, 28
Demarquez Antonio Kelley of Monroe died on March 26, 2025, at the age of 28. Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Parkview Church of Christ in Monroe, with burial at Richwood Gardens in Richwood, under the direction of Smith Funeral Home.
Michael Jenkins, 69
Michael Jenkins of Monroe passed away on March 19, 2025, at the age of 69. A memorial service was held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Smith Funeral Home to honor his memory.
